“Of course, without any money and without any ransom. Acted solely for the reasons of humanitarian nature”, – said the RussianPresident. According to him, Russia is ready to help to release the hostages and in the future, when it expects its partners to do the same.

The official U.S. state Department spokesman, commenting on the release of the American, expressed appreciation to the Russiangovernment “for any actions in the interests of US citizens”.